February isn’t just the month of love – it’s American Heart Month as well! Since 1963, this has served as a reminder to focus on the battle against the leading cause of death in America: heart disease. While moving your body daily and filling your plate with vitamin-rich foods are no-doubt important, you should also focus on your smile this month. To learn more about the link between heart health and oral health, read on!
A Deeper Look at the Link Between Heart Health and Oral Health
Did you know that people with gum disease are 2-3x more likely to experience a cardiovascular event, like a stroke? This is largely due to the fact that inflammation in the gums can result in the narrowing of important arteries. Furthermore, bacteria in your mouth can travel to vital organs, like your heart, via your bloodstream. As a result, the American Dental Association and American Heart Association have come together to warn patients about the relationship between heart health and oral health.
5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Oral Health This Month
The good news is that oral health conditions, such as gum disease, are largely preventable. Plus, caring for your smile doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. It’s as simple as implementing these best practices:
- Use the right tools, like a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste with fluoride
- Brush for two minutes each morning and evening
- Floss and rinse with mouthwash daily
- Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks
- Avoid unhealthy dental habits, like smoking
How Your Biannual Dental Checkups and Cleanings Help
Unlike other oral health conditions, gum disease can progress painlessly. As a result, many patients aren’t aware of how bad the infection is until it’s in the late stages. That’s why it’s crucial that you visit your dentist every six months! These routine visits ensure that your dental team is periodically screening for warning signs, like inflamed, red, and irritated gums. Plus, if they see anything of note, they can intervene early on, before serious consequences such as tooth loss are imminent.
This American Heart Month, don’t forget to focus on your dental care regimen as well. It can help significantly in your efforts to improve your heart health!
About the Practice
With several specialists in-house, including a periodontist, our team at LIC Dental Associates can help you with all of your dental needs – from routine checkups to essential gum disease treatment! We even offer state-of-the-art laser periodontal therapy, which is as safe and effective as it is comfortable and minimally invasive. If you would like to learn more about the link between heart health and oral health or you’d like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (718) 280-3286.